Three firms make shortlist for Flushing redevelopment.

Three firms have been short-listed by the city to develop a five-acre site in downtown Flushing.

New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) President Andrew M. Alper announced the selection of the three proposals as finalists for development of Municipal Lot 1, asking them to further refine their proposals before a final selection is made next month.

"We received 13 highly competitive and impressive proposals from a group of very qualified national and international developers and architects," said EDC President Alper.

"Redevelopment of this site is a key component of the Development Framework for Downtown Flushing, a result of an extensive collaboration among City and State agencies, local elected officials, advocacy groups, community members and local business leaders. "From the quality of the proposals we received, it is clear that we will achieve our objective to raise the standard for private investment in Downtown Flushing. The City is also committed to investing in strategic capital projects identified in the Framework, including pedestrian walkways, streetscape and traffic improvements."

Each of the three finalists have proposed hundreds of housing units, a business-class hotel and significant space for community uses.

They also propose to replace the approximately 1,100 parking spaces and provide additional spaces to accommodate the new development. Parking rates proposed by the finalists are below-market, and EDC is currently working to determine a mechanism to ensure low-cost parking will continue on Municipal Lot 1.

The three development teams have also incorporated extensive "green" building techniques that would bring an unprecedented level of environmental sustainability and design quality to Flushing.

All three proposals contain a number of common elements, including a one-acre landscaped public open space for community activities and social interaction. Surrounding the open space will be a vibrant street-level retail district including uses such as cafes, restaurants, a bookstore, a multi-screen cinema, and other local and national retailers to expand shopping opportunities for Flushing residents.

In addition to the development of Municipal Lot 1, the City is working with the Macedonia African Methodist Episcopal Church, located on the Eastern edge of the site, to develop affordable housing on a half-acre parcel north of the Church.

The City is also constructing a $40 million public parks facility on College Point Boulevard that will include indoor and outdoor sports and recreation fields and facilities, as well as space to accommodate a computer room, day care and after school, programs.